The Importance of the Maltese Honey Bee

The Maltese honey bee – the Apis Mellifera Ruttneri- is endemic to the Maltese Islands. The Maltese honey bee gradually stemmed from the species of the honey bee when the Maltese islands were cut off from Sicily. Interestingly, the island’s name (Melit), translates to ‘honey-sweet’ in Greek, which was probably influenced by the bee’s honey production. Malta was famed for its superb, plentiful honey, and appreciated for its delectable, sweet nectar with a flavour of Mediterranean flora.

The Maltese honeybee was the sole species to exist on the Maltese Islands for a very long period. That is until almost 4,000 bee colony attacks and devastations by the parasite Varroa mite occurred in 1992. Furthermore, a group was formed to aid in the preservation and promotion of the local honey bee in 2022. The association seeks to have Malta’s “natural heritage” acknowledge honey bees. They argue that the endemic Maltese bee is being harmed by importing honey bees from other breeds. The species has become somewhat resistant to the Varroa mite after this onslaught, but unfortunately, beekeepers are having difficulty taking care of new nests because hornets are attacking them. This resulted in less honey being produced, harming the honey industry.

Although this bee has always been present in the wild, there has been a significant decrease in its abundance. To provide a home for this bee, Friends of the Earth Malta is now building an apiary. They are also attempting to raise local awareness of the connections between agriculture, pollination, and biodiversity conservation. The long-term goal is to promote the creation of a network of local beekeepers who will contribute significantly to the preservation of biodiversity and the growth of local agriculture.

Friends of the Earth Malta

You as a local can do your part by being more aware of the importance of the Maltese honeybee. Friends of the Earth is also accepting donations to fund the maintenance of the hives.

If you’re interested to learn more about the Maltese honeybee, click here.